DictionaryrapSharp knock
noun / verb

rap

A sharp striking blow.

A sharp rap on the door interrupts our quiet dinner.

Etymology

Rap imitates or evokes a short, sharp impact. The noun names the blow and the verb names producing it.

More examples

  • She rapped her knuckles on the wooden counter.
  • Two quick raps on the window caught my attention.
  • The inspector raps the company for ignoring safety rules.

Forms

rap · raps · rapped · rapping

Similar words

knock
Usually a blow against a door or another hard surface.
tap
Suggests a lighter, gentler touch rather than a sharp strike.
blow
Covers strikes of any force, not just quick, sharp ones.